| As Scotland’s
sporting capital it goes without saying that Glasgow should
have a prosperous racecourse close by. And situated about
10 miles south of the city you’ll find Hamilton
Park [map],
which serves the punters of Glasgow and the Clyde.
Racing was first staged on this current site in July 1926,
however the sport has been part of Hamilton tradition
since as early as 1782. The three men responsible for
establishing the racecourse in 1926 were Colonel Robertson-Aikman,
Sir Loftus Bates and Lord Hamilton of Dalzell.
Since then Hamilton Park has enjoyed leading the way with
a number of firsts, including being the first racecourse
in Britain to stage evening racing – on 18th
July 1947.
During the 1950s, 60s and 70s, the course struggled due
to lack of funds for necessary investment and high rates
bills. But Hamilton Park is now more prosperous than ever
thanks to the efforts of Bill McHarg, who formed a Trust
with the objective of continuing racing at the Park ‘for
all of time’.
In recent years the course has enjoyed a £2.5million
transformation with the building of a smart new grandstand
and immaculate grounds.
Top facilities such as the Duke Restaurant, the Grandstand
and the Club enclosures have helped to ensure that Hamilton
Park is a firm favourite whether its race day or not.
Whether you’re planning a stag do or a conference,
a wedding reception or a birthday, you can celebrate or
do a day’s business at the Park as the grounds are
available to hire.
Racing wise the highlights of the year include the famous Saints & Sinners Charity Evening in June and
the Velvet Fair Friday Evening in July.
Kids are welcome at anytime, but there is a special Family
Day in May and Sunday Mail Family Night in
July, which should not be missed. The season usually rounds
off in September with the Festival Finale.
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